Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: TUESDAY, December 13, 1994 TAG: 9412130092
SECTION: VIRGINIA PAGE: C1 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: DAN CASEY STAFF WRITER
DATELINE: LENGTH: Medium
However, judging by the reaction from council members, the Roanoke County Republican ought not hold his breath waiting for a response. He's unlikely to get one. Even his GOP comrades on the council won't bite.
"We do not feel it's appropriate for Senator Bell or any member of the General Assembly to step into the affairs of local government," said Councilwoman Elizabeth Bowles.
"I feel this is a matter for council, and we don't need any help from Brandon Bell," said Councilman Jack Parrott.
Their comments followed a meeting between state lawmakers and the council at which Bell said he believes the matter warrants his attention. Privately, some council members in both parties said they believe he is "meddling."
Moving to a modified ward system, under which some members of City Council would be elected by district, has long been debated in Roanoke. Currently, all council members are elected at large.
"I think he's overstepped his bounds," said Councilwoman Linda Wyatt, a Democrat.
The issue gained a bit of steam last summer, when residents of the city's Southeast quadrant and members of the local chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People called on council members to make good on campaign pledges in favor of a referendum on the issue.
A majority of council - Mayor David Bowers, Parrott, Councilman William White, Wyatt and Councilman John Edwards - have said they're in favor of letting voters decide the issue. But another majority - Councilmen Delvis "Mac" McCadden, Bowles, Parrott, and, lately, Bowers - say they are against changing the current system.
After the first hearing, council called for another public hearing in September, at which more people spoke against changing the electoral system than for it. The issue has been in limbo since then.
Even Wyatt, the most outspoken proponent of a modified ward system, has made no attempt to force council to take a vote on the issue.
Bell said recently that he's been contacted by referendum advocates who are frustrated with the council's lack of action.
"After discussing the issue with my constituents, I feel that it is a matter that warrants my attention," he wrote in the letter to Bowers that was delivered yesterday. "Since I feel it is imperative that no such change be implemented without support of a majority of council members, I would prefer a formal endorsement from council.
"In order to prepare the legislation, I respectfully request you letting me know the direction you wish to take by Jan. 3," Bell wrote.
Bell said after the letter was delivered that he may submit the legislation even if the council does not call for it.
"I will take [the council's wishes] very seriously and consider it. But I also have constituents of Roanoke city who have elected me to consider their interests," he said.
by CNB